Woman Killed in Newtownards Plane Crash was 'Loving, Kind and Caring Mother'

By Q Radio News

The woman killed in a plane crash in Newtownards this week has been described as "the most loving, kind and caring mother".

The family of 44 year old Caroline Mawhinney, a mother-of-two from just outside Newtownards, said she was "so loved by all".

Ms Mawhinney died alongside Philip Murdock when their light aircraft  crashed into hedges close to Newtownards Airport on Tuesday.

Both were members of Ulster Flying Club.

In a statement, her family revealed she was due to start a new job as a teacher.

"Caroline worked as a mechanical engineer in Caterpillar, the American Construction machinery and equipment company, for 20 years before changing direction and studying to be a teacher, graduating recently with her PGCE and was about to start a new job as a technology teacher in New-Bridge Integrated College in Co Down.

"She was a qualified pilot and loved spending time at Newtownards Flying Club. Caroline was always smiling, energetic and really lived life to the full.

"She was so loved by all of her family and friends"

Businessman Philip Murdock also died in the crash

Mr Murdock, who was a founder of Craigavon-based Envision Intelligent Solutions in Craigavon, has been remembered as "passionate and charismatic".

Earlier this year Envision Intelligent Solutions was acquired by the listed Irish-American conglomerate Johnson Controls. They said they were "greatly saddened" by Mr Murdock's death.

"Phil was the founder and managing director of Envision Intelligent Solutions Limited and was a passionate and charismatic member of the team," the company said.

"Our thoughts are with his wife, his parents, his wider family and of course, his Envision team."

The Ulster Flying Club said on Wednesday that it was "with great sadness and regret" that two members had died in the crash.

"Our thoughts at this most terrible time are with the families and friends of the two people involved," it added.